Ferrari F12: Buying guide and review (2012-present)

While Ferrari has become recognised as the defining supercar marque for building mid-engined V8 Spyders and stunning hybrid hypercars like the LaFerrari, it’s arguably front-engined V12 modes which are most significant of all. After all, it’s a configuration which gave Ferrari its maiden victories at both Le Mans and in Formula 1. The F12berlinetta is the latest in a long line of the breed.

Though sharing a cylinder count with the 125, the F12’s engine has grown somewhat from the first ever V12 Ferrari’s 1.5 litre capacity. The 6262cc unit pumps out a staggering 730bhp and 509lb ft - the former figure 118bhp more than mustered up by even its predecessor, the 599 GTB. Thanks to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission with a launch control function, the F12 shrugs off the 0-60mph dash in 3.1 seconds. Top speed officially stands at 211mph.

The front mid-engined chassis makes use of aluminium alloys to form a structure both 20 per cent more rigid yet 70kg lighter than the 599, while the 20-inch wheels (wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres), are kept in check via magnetorheological dampers and an electronic limited-slip differential. Carbon ceramic brake discs are standard.

All these ingredients mix together to create one of the finest GT cars of the decade. When Evo Magazine tried the F12, they described it as possessing “the best drivetrain of any road car on sale.” It’s the engine that dominates the driving experience, and it helped the F12 to second place in evo’s Car of the Year feature in 2013.

Which one to buy?

To date, Ferrari has produced two production versions of the F12: the standard Berlinetta, and from late 2015, the F12tdf. Resurrecting the iconic Tour de France name from Ferrari’s past, it becomes the most extreme road legal front-engined car to emerge from Maranello.

Tweaks to the variable geometry intake trumpets and the inclusion of race-spec mechanical tappets liberated an extra 40bhp from the 6.3 V12, taking total output to 770bhp at 8500rpm. A pared-back cabin and the extensive use of carbon fibre inside and out (the bumpers, underbody aero and front wings are all made of the stuff) shed 110kg from the kerb weight. The four-wheel steering and magnetic dampers were revised, while a more aggressive aero package helped to not only reduce drag, but provided an extra 230kg of downforce at 132mph. It all adds up to a 2.9-second 0-62mph time, a top speed of, according to Ferrari, ‘over 211mph’, and a lap time around Fiorano that comes within 1.3 seconds of a LaFerrari.

Ferrari has also produced several rare and one-off specials via its Special Projects programme. These include the Ferrari F60 America, the F12 TRS and the SP AMerica. In 2014, ten F60s were produced to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Ferrari in North America. Mechanically identical to the F12, the F60 gains a completely revised roadster body style, with every example finished in a blue and white livery in tribute to the Ferrari North America racing team. The cabin, meanwhile, features an asymmetrical colour scheme - red on the driver’s side, black for the passenger. The three F12 TRS examples can be distinguished by a gaping grille at the front and a double-hump speedster shape at the back, while the SP America looks most similar to the standard F12, gaining extra body vents and a more angular face.

Given that the model variations are fairly limited, in the end choice among Berlinettas will boil down to which factory fitted options are most desirable. Given the price of many of the extras - the tailored leather luggage set costs over £3600 - it’s worth searching out one of the more highly-specced models if the budget can stretch far enough. Common options include the 20-inch forged alloy wheels and the various carbon add-ons, while the front suspension lift system - a circa £3300 option - will doubtless come in handy for any car used on a regular basis.

Performance and specs

Engine 6262cc V12

Power 730bhp @ 8250rpm

Torque 509lb ft @ 6000rpm

Top speed 211mph

0-60mph 3.1secs

Fuel consumption 18mpg

Gearbox Seven-speed automatic

Dimensions and weight

Wheelbase 2720mm

Length 4618mm

Width 1942mm

Height 1273mm

Weight 1630kg

Common problems

• Given the car’s relative youth, few serious problems have yet to emerge. Some owners who live in very hot climates have noted issues with the bit point of the clutch, though in the UK this is unlikely to be an issue.

• Models built between December 2014 and April 2015 were subject to a recall for faulty airbags. Check the history to confirm the repair work has been carried out.

• With a car so new, there is no excuse for a model to have anything other than a full ferrari service history, so double check that all of the paperwork is in order

Model history

Mar 2012: Ferrari F12berlinetta makes public debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Jun 2014: F12 TRS revealed by Ferrari Special Projects. Three examples of the speedster were built

2014 One-off SP America gains revised body style

Oct 2014: F60 America features roadster bodywork and unique interior design. Ten examples were sold in North America

Oct 2015: F12tdf gains power, loses weight and features a more aggressive and aerodynamically efficient body

Owners clubs, forums and websites

• auto.ferrari.com

• www.ferrariownersclub.co.uk

• www.fcars.co.uk

• www.ferrariownersclub.org

• www.ferrarichat.com

Summary and prices

Depending on the Ferrari dealer in question (and how much they like you) current lead times for a brand new F12 run from between 18 months to over two years. As a result, values of nearly new cars remain extremely strong, often exceeding the £240,000-plus required to place an order for a brand new model.

Prices start from around £180-£190,000 - enough for a two-year old example with around 15,000 miles. From there, values climb to over £300,000 for the most recent and highly-equipped 16-plate cars. Sellers of the F12tdf keep very tight-lipped about asking prices, but expect values to comfortably exceed the £339,000 list.

The Ferrari F12berlinetta is a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer which debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show to replace the outgoing 599. The naturally aspirated 6.3 litre Ferrari V12 engine in the F12berlinetta has won the International Engine of the Year Awards 2013 in the Best Performance category and Best Engine above 4.0 litres. The F12berlinetta was named "The Supercar of the Year 2012" by car magazine Top Gear
The naturally aspirated V12 engine produces 740 PS (730bhp) at 8250 rpm and 690 N·m (509 lb·ft) of torque at 6000 rpm, making it the fourth-most powerful Ferrari road car to date, only surpassed by LaFerrari, F12tdf, and 812 Superfast. This allows the F12berlinetta to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an officially reported 3.1 seconds, and a top speed of over 211 mph. Making use of aerodynamic techniques based on Ferrari's 599XX and Formula One programmes, the F12berlinetta was developed with wind tunnel and CFD testing. A notable feature is the Aero Bridge, an air channel running from the bonnet, through the flanks and along the sides of the vehicle, creating an effect that increases downforce
Here at Hofmann’s we are especially delighted to off

DESCRIPTION
AMARI is delighted to offer you this stunning example of the Ferrari F12berlinetta which is 2014 / 64 Registered, in Nero Daytona with Crema Hide, having covered only 14,500 Miles, by 2 Owners.
EXTERIOR
Our car is presented to you in Nero Daytona which is in an unbleamished and immaculate condition throughout, showing the care of its owner.
INTERIOR
The interior is upholstered in Beige Tradizione with Nero Carpets, truly contrasting with the exterior. Also in an immaculate condition, as you can expect for a car of very little mileage.
SPECIFICATION
The already huge specification of the F12berlinetta is HUGELY enhanced by the following options:
AFS System
Alcantara Seats Inner Trim
Yellow Brake Calipers
Carbon Fibre Headlight Bucket
Carbon Fibre Driver Zone + LEDs
Bridge in Carbonio
Carbon Fibre Cup Holder
Cruise Control
Alcantara Central Tunnel
Carbon Fibre Wheels Cup
Carbon Fibre Dashboard Inserts
Suspension Lifter
Horse Stitched on Headrest in Nero
Instrument Panel in Giallo
Leaf Style Seats
'Scuderia Ferrari' Shields
Interior / Exterior Electrochromic Mirrors
NavTrak Anti-Theft System
Parking Camera
Dual View Front Parking Camera
Passenger Display
Sport Sill Cover
Painted Inner Insert
Privacy Rear Windows
20" Forged Diamond Rims
Full Electric Seats
Leather Headliner
Leather Parcel Shelf
High Power HiFi System
Coloured Special Stitching in Nero
HISTORY
22/10/2015 - 8,075 Miles - Ferrari Main Dealer (JCT600)
11/10/2016 - 12,629 Miles - Ferrari Main Dealer (JCT600)
22/09/2017 - 15,201 Miles - Ferrari Main Dealer (JCT600)
The 4th Year Ferrari Warranty Expires on the 10th November 2018
The 7 Years Genuine Maintenance Pack Expires on the 10th November 2021.
The car sits on Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tyres all around.
Front: 255 x 35 x ZR20 (97Y)
Rear: 315 x 35 x ZR20 (110Y)
Front Right: 5mm
Front Left: 5mm
Rear Right: 5mm
Rear Left: 5mm
We have the Original Owners Pack containing the Owners Manual, and other reference material, as well as 2 Keys and 2 Fobs.
To arrange a viewing, please contact our team on 01772 663777.
Viewing strictly by appointment.
Prior to offering for sale, all cars are subject to the AMARI Inspection, a stringent 170 point investigation of the car cosmetically, electrically and mechanically.
Our resident master technicians attend to all issues prior to offering the car for sale, using the very latest and best diagnostic equipment, state of the art tools and methods.
Our highly qualified master technicians can carry out servicing on all road cars, from the standard family hatch back to the latest Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin... We are the only independent dealer with full Ferrari SDX Diagnostics and the Lamborghini LARAS Diagnostics systems.
Our fully equipped workshop enables us to attend to any electrical, and mechanical issues, from intricate electrical repairs and renewals, to brake disc Skimming and air conditioning recharging.
Before collection all cars go through our exhaustive detailing process (can take up to three days) using only the worlds finest Swissvax products, carried out by our professional certified Swissvax trained technicians, covering every aspect of the car inside and out.
Collection and delivery throughout the UK can be offered through the most reputable manufacturer championed company who use only the very latest covered car transporters with extensive experience of transporting cars across the world.
Vehicles are supplied with a three month warranty *Exclusions Apply.
We offer part exchange and finance facility on most cars.
AMARI Lifestyle Limited T/As AMARI SuperCars is authorised & Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (663066)

DESCRIPTION
AMARI is delighted to offer you this stunning, highly specified Ferrari F12 Berlinetta which is a 2015 / 65 Registered Example in Grigio Silverstone with Nero Interior, having covered only 2,514 Miles by 3 Careful Owners from New.
EXTERIOR
This car is in presented to you in beautiful Grigio Silverstone, which truly a spectacular colour combination for the F12. The exterior is in an immaculate condition as you would expect.
INTERIOR
The interior is upholstered in the Nero Alcantara throughout coordinating the tones with the exterior. Also in an immaculate condition throughout.
SPECIFICATION
The already huge specification of the F12 Berlinetta is highly enhanced by the following options:
AFS System
Carbon Fibre Driving Zone and LEDs Steering Wheel
Carbon Fibre Central Tunnel
Carbon Fibre Cup Holder
Cruise Control
Carbon Fibre Wheel Caps
Leather and Alcantara Interior Trim
Dashboard Inserts in Carbon Fibre
Embroidered Prancing Horse on Headrests
Coloured Rev Counter
Leaf Style Seats
Scuderia Ferrari Shields on Fenders
Outer and Inner Electrochromic Mirrors
Rear Parking Camera
Sport Sill Cover
20" Diamond Finished Forged Wheel Rims
Full Electric Seats
Hi-Fi Premium System
Colour Upon Request for Contrasting Stitching in Grigio Chiaro
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
High Emotion Low Emission
Other Added Extras:
Full Body Paint Protection Film
Brookes Race Exhaust, comprises of rear tips, back boxes, and cross over pipe.
Please note we also have the Original Exhaust System which can be refitted.
HISTORY
21/10/2016 - 1,361 Miles - Ferrari Main Dealer (Maranello)
05/01/2018 - 2,514 Miles - Ferrari Main Dealer (JCT600)
The 4th Year Extended Warranty Expires on the 29th October 2019.
The Genuine Maintenance 7 Years Service Plan Expires on the 29th October 2022.
The MOT is not yet due until the October 2018.
The car sits on Pirelli P-Zero all around
Front: 255 x 35 x ZR20 (97Y)
Rear: 315 x 35 x ZR20 (106Y)
Tyre treads are:
Front Right: 7mm
Front Left: 7mm
Rear Right: 5mm
Rear Left: 5mm
We have the original Owner Pack containing the Owner Manual, and other reference material, as well as 2 Keys and 2 Fobs.
To arrange a viewing, please contact our team on 01772 663777.
Viewing strictly by appointment.
Prior to offering for sale, all cars are subject to the AMARI Inspection, a stringent 170 point investigation of the car cosmetically, electrically and mechanically.
Our resident master technicians attend to all issues prior to offering the car for sale, using the very latest and best diagnostic equipment, state of the art tools and methods.
Our highly qualified master technicians can carry out servicing on all road cars, from the standard family hatch back to the latest Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin... We are the only independent dealer with full Ferrari SDX Diagnostics and the Lamborghini LARAS Diagnostics systems.
Our fully equipped workshop enables us to attend to any electrical, and mechanical issues, from intricate electrical repairs and renewals, to brake disc Skimming and air conditioning recharging.
Before collection all cars go through our exhaustive detailing process (can take up to three days) using only the worlds finest Swissvax products, carried out by our professional certified Swissvax trained technicians, covering every aspect of the car inside and out.
Collection and delivery throughout the UK can be offered through the most reputable manufacturer championed company who use only the very latest covered car transporters with extensive experience of transporting cars across the world.
Vehicles are supplied with a three month warranty *Exclusions Apply.
We offer part exchange and finance facility on most cars.
AMARI Lifestyle Limited T/As AMARI SuperCars is authorised & Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (663066)

We have available for sale a beautiful Ferrari F12, the flagship V12 from Ferrari. Our car is finished in Rosso Berlinetta with Crema, with lots of Carbon Fibre and special options. This car is a 2014 car registered in August 2014, it has a 1950 miles and has had one owner. The car was serviced in August 2015 by Ferrari. The car features a stunning Innotech IPE remote control valve opening exhaust system which adds a wonderful exhaust note.